Event
New World Symphony
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks
Naples Philharmonic
Alexander Shelley, artistic and music director
Karen Slack, soprano
Jennifer Higdon — blue cathedral
Jasmine Barnes, Damien Geter, Jessie Montgomery, Shawn Okpebholo, Dave Ragland, Carlos Simon and Joel Thompson — African Queens for Soprano and Orchestra
Dvořák — Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”
Internationally acclaimed soprano Karen Slack joins the orchestra under the baton of Artistic and Music Director Alexander Shelley for the world premiere of African Queens for Soprano and Orchestra by seven American composers. With her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, Slack brings to life the stories of seven historic African queens. This poignant and rhythmically charged work celebrates their beauty, strength, humility and passion through a vivid blend of melody and orchestral color. The program opens with Jennifer Higdon’s blue cathedral, a moving tribute to her late brother that evolves from quiet introspection to luminous hope. The evening concludes with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World” — a beloved masterwork infused with melodic richness, emotional depth and themes inspired by the American experience.
Prelude at 6:30pm
Join the conductor before the performance for an insightful 30-minute prelude discussion about the program.
Music and Museum
All Masterworks tickets include same-day admission to The Baker Museum. Museum hours on day of performance: 10am-7:30pm. In addition, the doors to Hayes Hall will open 90 minutes prior to this performance. Arrive early to enjoy the exhibitions and light fare available at Heidi's Place.
